A groundbreaking discovery along Libya’s eastern coastline has unveiled the remains of an ancient sea lighthouse, providing a rare glimpse into the country’s maritime history. The discovery, made by a Libyan-international archaeological team, was announced on Monday by the Libyan News Agency.
The lighthouse, believed to date back to the Greek or Roman era, highlights the strategic significance of Tobruk as a major port in antiquity. Excavations revealed portions of a circular stone structure and tower foundations, suggesting that the lighthouse once stood as a towering guidepost for ancient sailors navigating the Mediterranean waters.
Alongside the lighthouse remains, the team also uncovered pottery shards and small statues. These findings shed light on the vibrant commercial and cultural exchanges that took place in the region, reinforcing Tobruk’s role as a key trading hub connected to other Mediterranean civilizations.
Experts believe that the discovery could potentially redefine the understanding of ancient Mediterranean ports and contribute to a more comprehensive historical narrative of Libya’s maritime and cultural significance during the classical period.
The archaeological team confirmed that excavation work is ongoing, with further analysis of the artifacts expected to reveal more details about the site’s historical importance.